This summer, we were craving a family getaway, something easy with kids, but still special. After searching and considering so many places, we landed on Cannon Beach… and it turned out to be everything we hoped for and more. Magical, peaceful, and full of charm and the best part? It was such a simple trip from Salt Lake City.

A Quick, Easy Flight + The Prettiest Drive

We hopped on a flight from Salt Lake City to Portland, and in less than two hours, we had landed. It was one of those smooth, stress-free travel days, which, let’s be honest, feels rare with little ones.

After picking up our rental car, we headed straight for the coast, just about a 1.5-hour drive to Cannon Beach. And wow. As we got closer, the road turned dreamy: tall pine trees, wildflowers lining the road, and soft fog rolling in over the sunshine. It felt like we were driving straight into a storybook.

Where We Stayed

We booked a few nights at the Inn at Cannon Beach, and it was such a gem. Super family friendly, with everything close by just a short walk to the beach, restaurants, and even a little grocery store. Each morning, we enjoyed a healthy breakfast included at the inn, and in the afternoon? Homemade hot cookies waiting in the lobby. Yes, please.

There were flowers everywhere, and we even spotted bunnies hopping through the gardens. It felt peaceful and playful all at once, just what we needed. Our daughter loved exploring the garden, picking little flowers, collecting rocks, and just soaking it all in. It was slow, simple, and so relaxing.

Slow Mornings + Seaside Magic

Our days started with coffee and a walk on the beach. Then we’d head back for breakfast, and wander through town to explore. Cannon Beach has a charming downtown filled with art galleries, ice cream shops, cozy cafes, and unique local stores. While not everything is right next door, most places are close by, and it’s easy to park once and wander around. I loved seeing the charming beach style homes in Cannon Beach surrounded by hydrangeas and blooming gardens that gave everything a laid-back, effortlessly beautiful vibe.

Haystack Rock & That Golden Light

One of the most iconic parts of Cannon Beach is Haystack Rock, and it’s just as breathtaking in person as it is in photos. At low tide, we were able to walk right up to it and explore the area around it. Our daughter was completely enchanted by the experience, honestly, so were we. The golden light that evening made it all feel magical.

In the Cannon Beach area, there are so many great places to hike with beautiful views. We did an easy trail at Ecola State Park that gave us a stunning view of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock from above perfect for a family-friendly adventure. The drive there was beautiful, passing through forests where we spotted some birds and even a few large deer or possibly elk along the way.

What We Ate, Yes, the Chowder in a Bread Bowl!

We loved the food here so many cozy, delicious options. One favorite? famous for its clam chowder served in a warm sourdough bread bowl. was Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge. We had their clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, and it was everything we hoped for creamy, flavorful, and the perfect cozy meal

Other spots we loved:

• Pelican Brewing – great fish and chips, right near the water.

• The Wayfarer – a little more upscale, with ocean views and a cozy feel.

• Sea Level Bakery + Coffee – across from our hotel, and perfect for delicious coffee, sweets and lunch.

3 Days of Magic and Then Off to Seattle!

Three days in Cannon Beach felt just right. We had time to settle in, relax, explore, and make memories. From there, we drove toward Seattle and stopped at a few towns along the way, but honestly, Cannon Beach stole the show.

It was the perfect family friendly coastal town. Peaceful. Whimsical. Easy to get to. And full of little moments I never want to forget. If you’re looking for an easy escape from Salt Lake City to somewhere truly magical, Cannon Beach might just be your spot.

After our time in Cannon Beach, we took the scenic 4 hour drive north to Seattle, and we got to enjoy some of Washington’s most peaceful and beautiful views along the way. We stayed in an Airbnb in West Seattle, a charming area filled with blooming flowers, cozy restaurants, and close access to Alki Beach. It wasn’t walkable to everything, but we loved the slower pace and beautiful local spots.

We chose to stay in West Seattle because we wanted more of a neighborhood feel something quieter and more relaxed, with a strong sense of local charm. I’ve been to downtown Seattle many times, and while I enjoy visiting spots like the marketplace or museums, I never felt drawn to stay right in the middle of the city. Instead, we wanted to be somewhere closer to nature, the beach, and everyday life, where we could walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and parks, and take in the beautiful cottage style homes and lush gardens along the way.

We especially loved the street full of restaurants right by the bay. At times, it didn’t even feel like we were in Seattle, it felt more like being on a quiet island, with the water nearby and the city skyline in the distance.

Photo from a West Seattle cottage garden.

There are definitely a lot of different areas where you could stay in and around Seattle, even some on actual islands, like Bainbridge or Vashon. We didn’t want to take a ferry after all the other places we visited, but for someone looking for more of a retreat, those islands are beautiful too. West Seattle gave us a similar feeling, close to the city, but with that laid back, by the water vibe we were looking for.

These photos were taken at the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle, one of my favorite places to visit while in the city.

And for our last stop from Seattle, we took a drive to visit Leavenworth a charming Bavarian-inspired town tucked into the mountains. It truly felt like stepping into a storybook, and our little one loved exploring all the whimsical details.

Before flying back to Salt Lake City, we spent time exploring Pike Place Market enjoying delicious food and soaking up all the lively, iconic Seattle energy. It was the perfect way to wrap up a trip full of beauty, adventure, and family memories we’ll always hold close.

If you’re looking for an easy trip with kids out of Salt Lake City, whether you spend a few relaxing days in Cannon Beach or add a few more stops like we did, I hope this post gives you inspiration. I’m sharing some of our favorite photos and tips here on the blog for any families dreaming of a getaway like this.

Trips like this always remind me how quickly these little years go. Back home in Utah, I help families hold on to these tender moments through natural, heartfelt images. If you’re looking for someone who specializes in newborn and family photography in Salt Lake City, you can take a peek at my portfolio here I’d be honored to capture your family’s story too.